Mmegi

Drought arm-twists farmers to destock cattle

BMC Headquaters
BMC Headquaters

The effects of the devastating El Niño-driven drought are still being felt, with the number of cattle delivered to the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) rising, spurred by panic destocking amongst farmers.

According to figures released recently by the Bank of Botswana, meat exports which primarily comprise beef, soared to P173.6 million in the first quarter of 2024, the highest quarterly outcome since 2019.

Beef sector insiders told BusinessWeek that the drought had left farmers with no option but to panic sell their livestock to the BMC in an attempt to get the most out of their rapidly slimming herd. With little pasture nationwide after the long dry spell, farmers have been forced to dispose of their livestock to minimise their losses. The BMC is seen as offering the best prices in the market.

Editor's Comment
Justice delayed is trust denied

Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...

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